What happened
The pilot initiated a landing approach with full flap configuration targeting a relatively short turf strip measuring 1,910 feet in length and 70 feet in width. The surface conditions were wet, which significantly impacted ground handling characteristics. Upon touchdown, the aircraft traveled beyond the intended touchdown zone, landing long on the available runway.
Recognizing the limited remaining distance and the compromised braking efficiency caused by the wet grass, the pilot applied the brakes. To attempt to regain traction and improve stopping performance, the pilot retracted the flaps during the rollout. This maneuver did not prevent the aircraft from overrunning the paved or turf boundary. The airplane continued down an incline beyond the runway limits before coming to a final stop in an inverted position.
The investigation
Examination of the accident site and the aircraft revealed that the primary failure mode was a loss of directional control during the landing rollout on a short, wet grass surface. The physical evidence supported the narrative that the aircraft exceeded the available stopping distance despite pilot intervention attempts involving brake application and flap retraction.
Findings
The sequence of events indicates that the combination of a short runway length, wet surface conditions, and a long touchdown point created an environment where safe deceleration was not possible. The decision to retract flaps during the landing roll, while intended to improve braking action, did not mitigate the risk of overrunning the available ground. The aircraft's trajectory off the end of the runway and subsequent inversion confirms the severity of the overrun.
Safety message
Pilots operating into airports with short turf runways must carefully evaluate surface conditions before landing. Wet grass significantly reduces braking effectiveness. Landing long on such surfaces leaves minimal margin for error. Pilots should consider go-around procedures if touchdown occurs beyond the optimal zone or if runway length appears insufficient for safe stopping given the current weather and surface conditions.